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Schwann cells support extensive axonal growth into skeletal muscle implants in adult mouse brain
P N Anderson1, M Turmaine, P Woodham
1Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, University College, London, U.K.
Abstract:
The ability of striated muscle to support CNS axonal regeneration was tested by grafting pieces of the lateral rectus muscle of the orbit into the hippocampus or neocortex of adult inbred CBA mice. The mice were perfused with fixative 4-5 weeks after operation and ultrathin sections of the grafts examined by electron microscopy. Many axons were present in the grafts and some were traced into the surrounding brain tissue. Most axons were in contact with Schwann cells, or their processes, and both were often associated with basal lamina material left behind by degenerating muscle cells. A few axons and their accompanying Schwann cells were found in contact with the plasma membrane of muscle cells. Fenestrated capillaries were present in the grafts. It is suggested that Schwann cells form the substratum for axonal extension into muscle implants in the CNS, although other factors may contribute to the extensive axonal invasion of the tissue.
Insights
Striated muscle grafts support central nervous system (CNS) axonal regeneration in mice. Schwann cells, associated with muscle basal lamina, appear crucial for this axonal extension into CNS implants.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Regenerative Medicine
- Muscle Biology
Background:
- Central nervous system (CNS) axonal regeneration is limited.
- Muscle tissue has been explored as a potential scaffold for neural repair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the capacity of striated muscle to support CNS axonal regeneration.
- To elucidate the cellular and extracellular interactions during axonal growth into muscle grafts within the CNS.
Main Methods:
- Grafting of lateral rectus muscle into the hippocampus and neocortex of adult CBA mice.
- Electron microscopy analysis of graft-brain interfaces 4-5 weeks post-operation.
Main Results:
- Abundant axons were observed within muscle grafts, with some extending into surrounding brain tissue.
- Axons were primarily associated with Schwann cells and basal lamina material from degenerated muscle cells.
- Fenestrated capillaries were present, suggesting vascular support within the grafts.
Conclusions:
- Schwann cells, facilitated by muscle basal lamina, likely provide a substrate for axonal regeneration into CNS muscle implants.
- Other factors may also contribute to the observed extensive axonal invasion.